WhatsApp is urging all of its users to make one simple change to their settings that could prevent them from becoming the victim of a scam. The messaging app has reminded its billions of users worldwide of some key steps to counter cyber attacks amid a worrying resurgence in text scams.
The Meta-owned social network is a constant target for thieves due to its popularity, but there are simple ways to avoid becoming a victim, Mirror Online reports. One of the key things you can do is to ensure that your profile picture is private.
WhatsApp says allowing only your contacts to see your profile picture is an easy way to keep your identity safe. It means that strangers cannot view the photo or steal it in a bid to trick friends or contacts into believing that they are speaking to you.
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If you have a private profile picture, you are less likely to fall victim to the dreaded 'friend in need' scam, in which the hacker pretends to be a close family member and asks for money to be transferred. They usually use an elaborate story such as their phone or wallet being lost or stolen.
It is thought that thousands of pounds have been stolen using this method and it continues to be a favoured tactic used by online crooks. Luckily, it's easy to change your settings in a bid to stay protected.
To make your profile picture visible only to your contacts go to Settings > Privacy > Profile Picture > then change to My contacts.
Along with changing your profile picture, WhatsApp has also issued some other advice to help users avoid having their accounts hacked. Here are the latest tips you should know:
STOP: Take five before you respond. Make sure your WhatsApp two-step verification is switched on to protect your account; that you're happy with your privacy settings, and your six-digit pin is secure.
THINK: Does this request make sense? Are they asking you to share a PIN code which they have had sent to you? Are they asking for money? Are they rushing you into taking action? Remember that scammers prey on people’s kindness, trust and willingness to help.
CALL: Verify that it really is your friend or family member by calling them directly, or asking them to share a voice note. Only when you’re 100% sure the request is from someone you know and trust, should you consider it. If it turns out to be untrue, report it to Action Fraud.
A WhatsApp spokesperson told the Mirror: "WhatsApp protects your personal messages with end-to-end encryption, but we can all play a role in keeping our accounts safe by remaining vigilant to the threat of scammers.
"If you receive a suspicious message (even if you think you know who it’s from), calling or requesting a voice note is the fastest and simplest way to check someone is who they say they are. If you get a message from someone who isn't in your contacts, we give you the option to block or report them straight away.”
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